Virgin Trains extends Bombardier contract

Written by
David Briginshaw

British West Coast Main Line operator Virgin Trains has extended its contract with Bombardier until March 2016 to maintain its fleet of Super Voyager diesel trains. The contract is worth about £106 million (roughly $171 million).

Bombardier maintains the 200km/h (125 mph) tilting trains at its Central Rivers depot near Burton-upon-Trent, and at other locations on the network. The trains operate between London and North Wales, and between Birmingham and Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Tony Collins, chief executive of Virgin Trains, said: "Virgin Trains are delighted to extend our service agreement with Bombardier Transportation, building on the strong relationship we have developed over the last 13 years. The Voyagers are a key part of the West Coast Fleet and we look forward to working with Bombardier to continue to deliver a reliable and punctual service to all of our customers."